Minnesota Boxing News: Phil Williams, Donovan George

Phil Williams Stopped in Chicago
By Brett Mauren
Photo By Becky Olstad (www.beckyolstad.com)
February 1st, 2010

As a member of Phil Williams’ team in a publicist role I can’t sell myself as an unbiased source of information on Friday night’s fight (Jan. 29th). While Phil has yet to make a decision on his future, understandably so following a dramatic loss, I am also unable to release an official statement. I’m sure several Minnesota fight fans are curious toward Phil’s TKO loss to Donovan George so I am offering an inside account of Friday’s event from a team Williams perspective, exclusively to Minnesotaboxing.com.

I was able to access the locker room at about 9:30, where Williams was in high spirits as Jacque Davis wrapped his hands. Everyone seemed fully prepared for the task at hand, despite a hostile pro-George crowd. Jacque Davis had a symbol of peace ready for the Chicago fight fans crowd in the form of his authentic Walter Payton throwback jersey which he wore to the ring. The event was a refreshing production, with music blaring between rounds, dancers staged at opposite corners of the ring, just outside the gated area, and a movie theater screen draped on the back wall, offering a close up of the action. The arena’s production definitely had the crowd’s enthusiasm at high rate throughout the event.
A little after 11 o’clock the preliminary bouts had wrapped up and it was time for Williams vs George. Phil came to the ring draped in a Tyson style cut towel, while George entered the ring in his Greek battle helmet. The crowd support drastically favored George, aside from a few of Phil’s fans that were able to make the trip, and a group of boxing purist’s near ringside, who decided to rally for the underdog. The group was even kind enough to throw together a few pro-Williams chants.
Throughout the first two rounds Phil landed stiff jabs while shelling up throughout George’s flurries. The first round actually looked similar to the early goings of Phil’s bout with Matt Vanda in November. In round two, however, Phil’s legs began to look susceptible, as he stumbled at a few unusual points. It was as if his legs simply were not under him from the opening bell of the second round. I also noticed a lack of perspiration, about midway through the second.
In the third round George turned up the heat, smothering Phil with a relentless barrage that eventually dropped Phil through the ropes. He took his time getting up and was able to rise to his feet before the ten count, but again lost his footing, prompting a stoppage.
Following the fight I wasn’t able to talk with Donovan George, but he offered the routine nod to his management, and promotion team during his post fight interview. I made my way to the locker room where Phil, his corner team, Sean Hicman, and Davis Laque were all located. Phil continued to repeat “I’m gassed, I’m fine, I’m just gassed” as medical officials examined him. Members of George’s management team entered the locker room to acknowledge Phil, and offer words of wisdom. I will be the first to attest to the class shown after the bout by Cestus Management, again, I was not able to speak with George himself, but his handlers carried themselves graciously following the bout. As the locker room cleared out Phil expressed regret in not being able to show people the fighter he feels he truly is, but maintained a pleasant demeanor and even had enough energy to relax and enjoy Chicago for a bit before heading back to his hotel.
As a writer/publicist I personally hope to see Phil Williams back in the ring, and believe he is still capable of competing at high level, and remains in the upper echelon of Minnesota fighters. I understand, however, that following a knockout loss there are always uncertainties. Whatever road Phil takes following this bout I will throw my support behind him 100%.